WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. (June 4, 2020) – Staff at Grassy Waters Nature Preserve recently discovered the presence of two invasive lizard species within the preserve: Nile monitors and the Argentine black and white tegu. A University of Florida research team has been investigating invasive large lizard populations in Palm Beach County. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 mitigation they are asking citizens to help report any sightings of these species on their property, as this area is not accessible to researchers. The lizards are most often seen along canals and similar waterways.

Argentine Tegu

Nile Monitor

Both Nile Monitors and Argentine Tegus threaten Florida’s biodiversity with their aggressive nature and attacks on local wildlife. Residents can help by taking pictures and reporting sightings as part of a survey and awareness program on non-native invasive species that will run through fall of 2020. If an individual decides to participate, it is important to note that these animals should never be approached. By working together, researchers, citizens and the City of West Palm Beach can help protect the established ecosystem and native species of Grassy Waters Preserve.

Online tools are available to help identify and report these invasive species. To report a suspicious lizard, visit: http://ivegot1.org/ or call 888-IVE-GOT1 (888-483-4681). To identify a suspicious lizard visit: https://www.floridainvasives.org/lizard/.

Grassy Waters Nature Preserve is home to various types of native Florida wildlife and is the source of the drinking water for the City of West Palm Beach, the Town of Palm Beach, and the Town of South Palm Beach. The preserve is normally open to visitors for tours and programming, but adjusted operations are in effect due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information on which features are open or closed, please visit www.wpb.org/government/public-utilities/grassy-waters-preserve or call (561) 804-4985 (TTY: 800 955-8771).